Issues That Concern Teenagers

So, if you’ve a problematic teen, never think the problem is unsolvable (sometimes it does appear so) but relax and continue reading. We have two types of teenage problems. The problem they have no control over. This can be caused by people close to them like divorce by their parents ‘an act of God.’ In this category we have, loss of dear ones, natural disaster, an illness like cancer, etc. The second one is, the problems that happen as a consequence of what they (teenagers) do. In this category we have things like dealing in drugs or taking the drugs, pregnancy out of wedlock, involving themselves in criminal activities, etc.

Anorexia, nervosa, and bulimia nervosa are psychiatric eating disorders that are common among teenagers, especially teenage girls. Other forms eating disorders are; overeating and poor eating habits. Symptoms of eating disorder Low self-esteem is a common symptom among teenagers suffering from anorexia and bulimia. Spending too much time in the toilet and running water in order hide the fact that their vomiting (in case of bulimia) should also be observed.

Teenagers suffering from Bulimia experience dramatic fluctuations in weight. On the other hand the anorexic patients attempt to loss weight even if they are bags of bones. The child and adolescent psychiatrist is trained to evaluate, diagnose, and treat these psychiatric disorders which are characterized by a preoccupation with food. With proper treatment, teenagers can be relieved of the symptoms or helped to control these disorders.

Parents who notice symptoms of anorexia or bulimia in their teenagers should ask their family physician or pediatrician for a referral to a child and adolescent psychiatrist who works comprehensively in the treatment of these disorders.

Teen Drug Use

All teens take drugs. To put it more correctly, everybody takes drugs. But for our purposes, we are today concerned about the use of illegal drugs or illegal use of legal drugs. Drug abuse is a common problem not only in adults but also in teenagers. It is the use of drugs for non-medical purposes that can destroy physical and mental well being of a person. This is widely affecting the society especially those who are in their teenage years. Drugs can cause addiction in psychological, mental or both aspects. Teens should be aware of the effects of it in their lives. Drug addiction among teenagers is caused by different factors. Some of teenagers take drugs because of peer pressure.

A typical teen is easily influenced by his friends to take drugs not knowing its consequences. For example, a teen having a vast group of friends has a large tendency to be influence to try illegal drugs. Probably his best friend would say “Come on, Try this! Just once!” and from his first try, he will become dependent on it every time. A teenager should learn to choose his friends and company. Thus, they should learn how to say “NO” to them. For more information teen drug use, go to National Institute on Drug Abuse www.nida.nih.gov/

Teen Suicide

Suicides among young people nationwide have increased dramatically in the last couple of decades. Every year in the U.S., thousands of teenagers commit suicide. Suicide is the third leading cause of death for 15 to 24 year olds. Teenagers experience strong feelings of stress, confusion, self-doubt, pressure to succeed, and other fears in the process of growing.

Depression and suicidal feelings are curable mental problems. The adolescent needs to have his illness recognized and diagnose, so treatment plans can be developed. When parents are in doubt whether their child has a serious problem, a psychiatric examination can be very helpful. Many of the symptoms of suicidal feelings are similar to those of depression.

Parents should be aware of the following signs of adolescents who may try to kill themselves. Psychiatrists recommend that if one or more of these signs occurs, parents need to talk to their child about their concerns and seek professional help when the concerns persist:

Violent actions, rebellious behavior or running away.

Drug and alcohol use.

Change in eating and sleeping habits.

Unusual neglect of personal appearance.

Marked personality change.

Withdrawal from friends, and family and regular activities.

Persistent boredom, difficulty concentrating, or a decline in the quality

of schoolwork.

Frequent complaints about physical symptoms, often related to emotions,

such as stomachaches, headaches, fatigue, etc.

Loss of interest in pleasurable activities.

Asking your teen whether he or she is depressed

or thinking about suicide can be helpful. Such a question will provide the teenager an assurance that somebody cares and

will give the young person the chance to talk about problems.

With support from family and professional treatment, children and teenagers

who are suicidal can heal and return to a more healthy path of development.